Books like Like Lava in My Veins
Award winning
Just For You! Low-down Bad-day Blues
Derrick Barnes, Aaron Boyd, 2004
32 pages
Why to read
Vibrant storytelling captivates and delights young readers.
Addresses handling emotions, enhances emotional intelligence.
Encourages resilience through engaging narrative.
Supports early literacy skills and language development.
Just For You! Low-down Bad-day Blues
Derrick Barnes, Aaron Boyd, 2004
Award winning
The Queen of Kindergarten
Derrick Barnes, Vanessa Brantley-Newton, Listening Library, Tyla Collier, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Inspires confidence and leadership in young readers.
Celebrates diversity and inclusivity, essential social values.
Enhances vocabulary and language skills effectively.
Encourages kindness and empathy through engaging storytelling.
The Queen of Kindergarten
Derrick Barnes, Vanessa Brantley-Newton, Listening Library, Tyla Collier, 2022
Award winning
Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut
Derrick Barnes, Gordon C. James, 2017
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates confidence, culture, and self-esteem in young boys.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and retain children's attention.
Supports emotional development and promotes diversity.
Perfect for family bonding and shared reading experiences.
Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut
Derrick Barnes, Gordon C. James, 2017
Award winning
Ruby Flips for Attention (Ruby and the Booker Boys #4) (4)
Derrick Barnes, Vanessa Brantley-Newton, 2009
144 pages
Why to read
Addresses need for attention through engaging storytelling.
Strengthens emotional intelligence and family bonding.
Encourages self-expression and confidence in children.
Vibrant illustrations complement the lively text.
Ruby Flips for Attention (Ruby and the Booker Boys #4) (4)
Derrick Barnes, Vanessa Brantley-Newton, 2009
Mixed Me!
Taye Diggs, Shane W. Evans, 2015
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and mixed-race identity.
Engaging storytelling, vibrant illustrations.
Encourages self-acceptance and inclusivity.
Ideal for family bonding through reading.
Mixed Me!
Taye Diggs, Shane W. Evans, 2015
Award winning
In Plain Sight
Richard Jackson, Jerry Pinkney, 2016
40 pages
Why to read
Encourages attention to detail through playful visual elements.
Enhances vocabulary and observational skills.
Supports intergenerational bonding with grandparent-grandchild dynamic.
Fosters daily discovery and appreciation of simplicity.
In Plain Sight
Richard Jackson, Jerry Pinkney, 2016
Award winning
Keep Your Head Up
Aliya King Neil, Charly Palmer, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Boosts resilience through colorful, engaging storytelling.
Encourages positive thinking and perseverance in kids.
Interactive and captivating narrative sparks creativity.
Reassuring tone, ideal for building self-confidence.
Keep Your Head Up
Aliya King Neil, Charly Palmer, 2021
Award winning
Superbat
Matt Carr, 2017
32 pages
Why to read
Engaging and adventurous superhero story.
Emphasizes bravery and self-discovery.
Encourages creativity and individuality.
Ideal for interactive family reading sessions.
